KMC decides to restore Karachi Zoo

KARACHI: The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has decided to make efforts to make the Karachi Zoo attractive for the people, especially children. The zoo's boundary wall will be decorated with paintings of big animals, according to the plan, while sign boards will be placed containing names and information about all animals, birds and old trees. The environment of the zoo will be changed in a way that people who never visited the zoo before would also want to take their children there.

This was decided in a meeting held at Karachi Zoo headed by the KMC Commissioner Dr Syed Saifur Rehman on Wednesday. Recreation Senior Director Mansoor Qazi, Aquarium Additional Director Ismail Shakir, Deputy Director Abida, Veterinary Dr Amir Ismail and Horticulturist Zamin Abbas were also present at the event.

Rehman conducted a detailed survey of the zoo and inspected different animals, birds and their cages and said that the gardeners, security guards and other staff members working in the zoo should have a specific uniform. "This matter has been discussed with a private bank which will provide the selected and approved uniform for the staff."

Appreciating the staff on the security and cleanliness of the zoo, he said that they should maintain such an environment that the visitors feel secure while enjoying. "The lack of big animals in this zoo will also be supplemented. The provincial government has been requested for it," he added. He also surveyed the Mughal Garden, ancient fountains and waterfall installed outside the Karachi Zoo and expressed joy on seeing them operational.

Karachi Zoo Director Dr Mansoor Qazi said that this historical zoo was established in 1870. "Around 850 animals and birds from various species are present here currently. In addition to this, a fish house with beautiful fishes and reptile house is also present in the zoo." He added that a fun land along with boating facility was also available. He informed that the total number of cages in the zoo is 125.

An information desk was also set up where the visitors could get information about location or lost things. Direction boards to direct towards different animals and birds' cages have also been placed.

Old trees that are about 100-150 years old are also there in Karachi zoo which include Banyan, Neem, Fig and Tarmarind trees. The roots of these trees are growing further which is adding to the beauty of the zoo. All these ancient trees were planted in the era of British Colonial rule. 

Published in The Express Tribune, December 28^th, 2018.